Barn Owl, Tyto alba

One of the most widespread of all birds, Barn Owls are found throughout North America, and on all continents except Antarctica. But their mostly nocturnal habits mean they are not often seen, and difficult to photograph.Their light coloring make them impressive when seen flying in darkness,and their heart-shaped faces are distinctive.

Above and below, downy young owls in a nest in a palm tree in Menlo Park, a residential suburb. Barn owlsare flexible and adaptible in their choice of nests, one of the factors that has contributed to their great successas a species.